Cliffs Continues to Investigate Options In Timmins

July 20, 2011 

TIMMINS,ON: The Timmins Economic Development Corporation and the City of Timmins recently hosted a representative from Cliffs Natural Resources.  Cliffs is looking for a community to host their Ferrochrome Production Facility.  This facility is a key component of their "Ring of Fire" development plans.  

Dave McGirr chairman of the TEDC noted that "we have been working with Cliffs Natural Resources for quite some time now.  We prepared a detailed background document describing why Timmins would be the logical choice for Cliff's Ferrochrome facility.  We described our local labour force skills set in great detail and we also showcased a variety of local sites that meet their baseline requirements."

Mayor Tom Laughren noted that this is Cliff's second visit to the community.  Mayor Laughren stated that "we appreciate that Cliff's is engaged in a detailed due diligence process to find the perfect site.  The fact that Cliff's have been working with Team Timmins to investigate our options and what the City of Timmins has to offer the mining firm says a lot about our community.   Timmins is a municipality that was built to service the natural resources sector.   We can be proud that we have the local talent and skill sets to operate a world-class business operation from our home.  He also noted that we have been working aggressively behind the scenes to highlight what Timmins can offer Cliffs since December 2009.

During this most recent visit the Cliffs representative met with local mining and community leaders. Christy Marinig the CEO of the Timmins Economic Development Corporation stated that "the local experience of working in and operating a large global business from Timmins was a focal point of the conversation.   These leaders were able to elaborate that we are a community that knows how to deliver shareholder value while being safe, productive and profitable.

Cliffs is expected to make a final decision on the location of the Ferrochrome facility later this year. 

-30-

Christy Marinig, CEO
Timmins Economic Development Corporation

Tel: 705-360-2649
Email: tedc@timmins.ca